ACTIVITY HOLIDAYS IN MOROCCO: CYCLING IN THE SAHARA DESERT

Introduction: Southern Morocco is a land of extreme contrasts - from the commanding kasbahs and lush oases of the Draa Valley, to the high peaks and hidden valleys of the Atlas Mountains or the sand dunes of Erfoud. It is also a wonderful region for an activity holiday such as an exotic cycling holiday - traffic is minimal, road surfaces good and the winter climate is ideal!

Gateway to the Sahara: From Ouarzazate our first ride takes us down into perhaps the lushest oasis south of the Atlas - the Draa Valley. Millions of date palms, ancient kasbahs and ksours (fortified villages) line the way, with the breathtaking mountains of the Jebel Sahro as a backdrop. After a night in the small town Tazzarine we arrive in Rissani, where there's time to cycle or visit Erfoud, to enjoy the local market. In the afternoon a short jeep ride (optional) takes us to the huge sand dunes of the Erg Chebbi. A walk across them at sunset is an unforgettable experience when light and colours are changing every minute. Here one gets the first impression of what the real Sahara is like.

Todra Gorge and freewheeling in the High Atlas: Next we cycle towards Tinerhir and, completing the journey by vehicle, enter the dramatic Todra gorge - one of the most impressive rock formations in the region. On the following day it's on by bus through the scenic “Valley of the 1000 Kasbahs”. Then, driving into the High Atlas, we slowly ascend the Tizi n'Tichka pass (2,260m). This impressive road cuts right through the heart of the Atlas, allowing us an opportunity to ride downhill through some of North Africa's most spectacular mountain scenery - from fortified kasbahs to lush valleys and snow-capped peaks.

Marrakesh - A Feast for the Senses: Leaving the majestic Atlas mountains behind, we reach Marrakesh, the 'Red City'. There will be time to enjoy the maze of alleyways in the souks and the celebrated 'circus' of Djemma-el-Fna Square. Crammed with story-tellers, musicians, jugglers, snake-charmers, peddlers and kebab stalls, it is a scene straight from the Arabian Nights. An optional guided walking tour can be organised for anyone interested.

Trip notes:

Accommodation & Meals: 7nts hotel; 7 breakfasts included.

Bicycles: 21-gear 'hybrid' bikes with front suspension and a rear pannier bag for carrying day things.

Grade & Terrain: Grade B - 175km/4 days (average 44km/cycling day). 1 day free for optional ride. By using our support bus to ascend steep sections we ensure that cycling is either relatively flat or downhill, though there are still a few uphill sections. Expect some exhilarating descents from high passes (including the dramatic Tizi n'Tichka). 95% on asphalt.

Group Size: Approx. 12 to 16.

Tour Staff & Support: Tour Operator's Tour Leader/guide cycles with the group each day. A support vehicle/bus accompanies the tour in full, providing transfers between cycling points and carrying luggage.

Detailed itinerary

Ex-London Itinerary (Including International connections from London)

1 Fly London/Ouarzazate; transfer to hotel. 2 Drive and cycle through the Draa Valley to Tazzarine. 3 Drive and cycle south of the Jebel Sahro to Rissani. 4 In Rissani, optional cycle ride or visit Erfoud oasis; afternoon optional jeep drive to Erg Chebbi sand dunes at Merzouga for desert sunset. 5 Cycle and drive to Tinerhir and Todra gorge. 6 Transfer into High Atlas to Tizi n'Tichka pass (2,260m); dramatic descent by bike towards Ait-Ourir and Marrakech (weather permitting); drive into Marrakech. 7 At leisure in Marrakech; optional guided city walk. 8 Fly London

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